Some Chelsea fans were over the moon with the tactical change that Maurizio Sarri made during Chelsea vs Southampton this evening.
Chelsea certainly haven’t delivered the commanding performance that fans would have expected in the first half of their clash against 17th placed Southampton. The Blues created chances but there was a lack of killer instinct on show, this could come back to bite Sarri’s men when they reflect on the game.
Chelsea were hit with an injury to Willian in the first half and the Brazilian was replaced by talented youngster Ruben Loftus-Cheek in the 37th minute of the clash.
Willian has faced criticism this season for his uninspiring performances and although suffering an injury is unfortunate, the chance it gives Ruben Loftus-Cheek to shine could be the key to victory against the Saints tonight.
Check out reaction to Willian’s substitution below:
Best news since we won the CL
— ? (@Gonzalo_CFC) January 2, 2019
I wouldn’t wish an injury to anyone but he is awful and brings no creativity to the team
— MainwaringFT (@FtMainwaring) January 2, 2019
Now we are definitely winning this game
— El CALIF (@RoiSinBad) January 2, 2019
Never wished this for him but happy that he won’t continue with the game.
— Petals? (@Petals90264179) January 2, 2019
Come on RLC, show your presence in this game and score the goal needed or create it. #COYB #CHESOU #PL
— Owólabí ?lálékan Gabriel ?? (@Olalekan_Owo) January 2, 2019
Correction: @Rubey_LCheek takes his rightful place.
— Tope Akerele (@MrTopeAkerele) January 2, 2019
He wasnt playing well. The change was needed whether injured or not.
— Wayne Sampson (@WayneSampson1) January 2, 2019
Our injury list is piling up
— Mike Twist (@MikeTwist7) January 2, 2019
Not saying anything but I am happy for Loftus-Cheek ?
— Cy (@cy_mureithi) January 2, 2019
Our fan base is sth else… Why celebrate your own player injury… Disgusting
— PEH_CEE ? (@per_cee) January 2, 2019
The Blues will need to seriously improve in the second half.
Ralph Hasenhuttl has improved the Saints since he was appointed manager but Sarri’s fourth placed Chelsea side should be performing much better against a side that are seen as relegation candidates.